CORRECTION OF THE 2nd CLASS TEST OF THE SECOND TERM

The text is an extract from the Anglo-Saxon epic poem Beuwulf. It was originally handed down orally between the 8th and the 11th century. Later it was written down by a single Christian composer. The language used  is Old English, an English mixture of various German dialects.

The  text consists of three sections of different length. The first is extremely interesting to bring to surface Grendel's aggressive and greedy attitude. Moreover it deals with the fight between beuwulf and Grendel. The narrator immediately conveys Grendel's voracity , emphasizing his immediacy . Indeed, the alliterative sound of the consonant "s" joins three expressions which refer to his rapidity and voracity. The intelligent reader can also notice the typical German word order present at line 738:the verb is placed at the end of the line. The composer use such narrative strategy to mantain suspense and underline a slow action, opposed to the deeds narrated in the next lines. The text focuses on a  macabre action presented at line 741-742-743. Indeed he uses macabre expressions to underline Grendel's behavior. In addition he also uses the alliterative sound of consonant "b" to associate these expressions (bit,bone lappings, bolted). The intelligent reader can also notice the sound of "g" in the word "gorged" recalls Grendel's greedy attitude and his condition of a dangerous predator. Beuwulf's qualities are summarized at lines 747-748, where his ability to face the danger and put bravery over his own life is highlited. Moreover, the narrative tells the reader about Beuwulf's power and strength with his "handgrip harder than anything". Finally, the narrator displays Beuwulf's uniqueness at line751, where his unique strength which lets himface the monster who was terrorizing the kingdom comes straight forward to surface.

The second section highlights Beuwulf's leadership. Indeed the warriors worked to defend their lord's life as best as they could. The subject of the second section is Beuwulf, but also the military society of the historical period is an object of analysis.

Finally, the last section wants to celebrate Beuwulf's deeds. Beuwulf was praised for the glory of winning. Respect of the rival is visible too, indeed Grendel was taken in his "desolate fair".